DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

We have all heard this advice, time and again: Drink lots and lots of water.  A medical snippet I read recently suggests that we drink two glasses of water in the morning (to kick-start our internal organs), along with one glass prior to meals (for digestive purposes) and one glass at bedtime (to prevent heart attacks and strokes). Other medical professionals recommend a total of eight glasses daily for a healthy water regimen. Apparently, the consumption of copious amounts of water is crucial to the maintenance of health. 

First, let’s look at the natural aspects, then the spiritual.  Both the composition of planet Earth and the human body provide key clues to the Creator’s intentions regarding water.  Our world is comprised of two-thirds water, in contrast with the totality of land masses.  Likewise, our bodies are approximately two-thirds water, which varies somewhat based upon individual characteristics.  Our brains are seventy-five percent water; our lungs (believe it or not) are eighty-three percent water.  That fact makes drowning in water a bit more difficult to understand, right?  Nevertheless, these facts clearly depicts the biological necessity of water.

Long distance runners talk about “hitting the wall,” which means their energy drops to nearly zero if they do not sufficiently hydrate.  The bottom-line is that our bodies were designed to function best with ample H₂O. It might seem counterintuitive, but marathoners’ pit-stops for water do not actually slow them down.  Rather, taking a few seconds for water quickens their steps and potentiates their ability to run well and finish the race.

Scientists who specialize in the search for extraterrestrial life search diligently for evidence of water content on other planets.  Their conclusion: Where there is water, there is the possibility of life.

In the Spirit realm, water is also of vital importance.  The word “water” is mentioned over 635 times in the scriptures.  Very early in creation, “the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” (Genesis 1:2)  And shortly thereafter, God ordered “the waters [to] bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life.” (Genesis 1:20)  Thus, we can rightfully contend that sea life emerged from those potent created waters at Almighty God’s command.  Wow!

Jesus Christ invited the now famous Samaritan woman-at-the-well to drink of “living water” that would forever quench her spiritual thirst. (John 4:10)  This liquid spiritual encounter totally transformed her life, and that of others in her community as well.  It’s like that.  When your thirst is satisfied, you are motivated to share your fulfilling experience with others.  In the final chapters of The Holy Bible, Jesus invites “he that is thirsty” to drink “of the fountain of the water of life freely.”  This offer is generously extended to “whosoever will.” (Revelation 21:6 and 22:17)

Even the sanctification (ongoing spiritual cleansing) of members of the Body of Christ is predicated upon “the washing of water by the word.” (Ephesians 5:26)  Thus, Christ’s spiritual water has both life-giving and purifying properties.

John’s apocalyptic vision reveals the presence of “a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb” in The New Jerusalem.  And “on either side of the river is the tree of life…and the leaves of that tree are for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:1-2)

Beyond any shadow of doubt, we are now spiritually alive because of Christ’s constant infusion of living water.  For the superstitious Athenians who created an altar dedicated to “The Unknown God,” Paul summarized our life-connection with clarity: “In HIM we live, and move, and have our being.” (Acts 17:23;28)

So drink plenty of water.  It will bless you and all those you encounter.  An old television commercial by American Express had this memorable slogan: “Don’t leave home without it.”  I beg to differ.  You can successfully leave home without the American Express card, but you should never think of traveling anywhere without your living water. 

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

CHANGE

CHANGE

Sometimes change is dreaded; sometimes change is desirable.  For many, there is nothing more intimidating than the prospect of major changes in familiar routines and circumstances.  New conditions can result in debilitating anxiety attacks and overwhelming fears of the unknown.  Others welcome and embrace life’s changes as golden opportunities to potentially forge fresh connections with growth and progress.

Allow me to cite two diametrically-opposite Biblical examples:

Jacob submitted to Laban’s requirement of indentured servitude to gain the hand of his lovely daughter, Rachel.  However, his employer resorted to deceptive practices in order to ‘marry off’ two daughters, Leah and Rachel.  As a result, Jacob worked a total of twenty years to fulfill the terms of the betrothal covenant and to gain a substantial endowment of cattle.  Jacob did not anticipate such an extended time frame and was not so happy with his unexpected life-detour.  Even in their animal transaction, Laban intended to slight Jacob, but God intervened with a creative strategy by which Jacob prevailed and prospered. [Genesis, chapter 31]

Genesis 31:6-7;41
And ye know that with all my power I have served your father.  And your father has deceived me, and CHANGED my wages ten times; but God suffered him not to hurt me.  Thus have I been twenty years in your house; I served you fourteen years for your two daughters, and six years for your cattle: and you have changed my wages ten times.

Although Laban designed contractual changes and deceptive methods to gain the upper hand over Jacob, GOD allowed this grandson of Patriarch Abraham, this father of Israel’s twelve tribes, to abundantly prosper.

In stark contrast, Job was totally desirous of change.  His life situation had completely deteriorated in sudden and catastrophic ways.  Virtually overnight, Job lost his children, his health, his wealth, his wife’s goodwill and his closest friends’ support.  In that quagmire of absolute loss, Job’s mind pondered eternity: “If a man die, shall he live again?”  Nevertheless, he answered his own question with full faith and intestinal fortitude: “All the days of my appointed time will I WAIT, till my CHANGE comes.” (Job 14:14)  In the end, God restored Job’s tragic losses, and his latter years were far more blessed than his former.

While these two situations seem to be radically different, they possess one common thread.  Whether we are happily experiencing changes in which we delight or struggling desperately with changes that we dread, our GOD is absolutely in control.  Both Jacob and Job prevailed over their personal detractors and life circumstances.  For both parties, the element of PATIENCE was a necessary prerequisite to eventually experiencing divine favor and blessing.  And Jesus Christ declares to us across time and eternity, “By your patience possess your souls.” (Luke 21:19)

Therefore, in case it does not ‘look’ like you are winning, please remember that our GOD is always up to something behind the scenes.  “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)  My friend, stride forward in faith, purpose, perseverance and power.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

WAKE UP!

WAKE UP!

Years ago, there was an unforgettable horse named Sunday Silence.  The reality is that Sunday Silence should have been dead – twice.  As a young colt, Sunday Silence contracted a deadly case of colic.  Colts with colic rarely survive.  Sunday Silence got colic as colt, yet he somehow managed to survive.

Due to his prior medical condition, Sunday Silence was put up for sale at two separate auctions.  However, no one wanted to purchase a horse that either had colic or such an unsightly appearance.  You see, on top of his horrific health issues, Sunday Silence was nearly killed when the driver of his trailer had a heart attack, which resulted in a terrible traffic accident.  Bottom-line: Sunday Silence was an unwanted and unmarketable horse.

Eventually, a man named Charles Widdingham bought Sunday Silence (sight unseen) for $25,000 because everything he had heard suggested to him that Sunday Silence was a tough horse, a real survivor.  At the age of 76, Charles was the oldest trainer to ever bring a horse to The Kentucky Derby, but he entered that prestigious event anyway, only to become the brunt of everyone’s jokes. 

Even the jockey he had chosen, Pat Valenzuela, was in semi-broken condition.  He had only recently been rehabilitated from drug abuse.  So, the odds were heavily stacked against them.  Most people would not have wagered one dollar on that horse, his rider, or his trainer.

Nevertheless, Charles and Pat kept faith and trained Sunday Silence rigorously.  They worked around the clock to get him ready for the toughest race in the world.  Of course, they were surrounded by million-dollar horses with wealthy owners, possessing deep financial pockets.  And they were categorically dismissed, as an old fool, a young punk drunk and a sickly unsightly horse.

The day of The Kentucky Derby finally arrived.  When the gun sounded and the horses bolted out of their gates, a pitiful looking Sunday Silence (at first) wobbled back and forth, appearing to be completely confused.  But the gloating spectators overlooked one important thing: Sunday Silence had heart.

All of a sudden, something strange and unprecedented occurred.  For reasons unknown to his startled critics, Sunday Silence seemed to wake up – and he raced down the track like a champion thoroughbred.  It seemed that he suddenly realized, ‘I’m in a big race…and I want to win!’  Sunday Silence shot down the track like a bolt of lightning, passed all of his ungulate competitors, and won The Kentucky Derby that day – all because he had tremendous heart.

Perhaps in your case, some have grossly underestimated your worth or devalued your contribution.  Please do not allow your dream to be deterred or deferred by disapproving glances or commentary.  You know better.  Wake up!  Put your entire being (body, soul and spirit) into the unique assignment for which only YOU been positioned on this planet.  No, it is definitely not too late.  Start seeing (TODAY) what GOD had in mind for you long before the foundation of the world.  Write it down, meditate on it, plan it and act on it. Then evaluate your progress, tweak your strategy, and try again and again and again, until you succeed!

Sunday Silence silenced all of his adversaries without speaking one word.  His bold actions were the loudest and clearest expression of his winning destiny.  My friend, YOU have far more value and capability than Sunday Silence.  So come to life, stand up and get moving; ask God for the measure of faith, wisdom and power that will put your life into overdrive.  Then, just do it.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE BELOVED OF THE BELOVED

THE BELOVED OF THE BELOVED

I love how the Father institutes a COVENANT OF SONSHIP with fallen man.  It’s all grace – all unmerited – all completely undeserved!  This covenant is fully manifested at the baptism of Jesus Christ, when the Holy Spirit descends in the bodily shape of a dove and the Father speaks from Heaven, identifying the Son, the Messiah and Savior of accepting humankind.  “And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17, NKJV)  This is the Father, publicly proclaiming that Jesus Christ is His “BELOVED SON.” 

Jesus’ heavenly connection as the “beloved Son” was of such vital importance that He frequently spoke of it. In John 3:35, Jesus declares “The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand.”  In John 5:20, Jesus affirms that “the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things.”  And in John 17:23 (a portion of Christ’s High Priestly Prayer), He testifies “You [The Father] have sent Me, and have loved them [believers] as You have loved me.”  Clearly, Jesus Christ, the Son, is the “only begotten” and “beloved Son” of the Father.

However, for every believer, this relational-testimony of Jesus becomes a profoundly personal and awesome benefit.  As the “beloved Son” of the Father, Jesus Christ was empowered to die vicariously for our sins, allowing us to be liberated from satanic bondage and to be born again.  As we are born again (by grace through faith) and made alive “in Christ,” we receive the bona fide benefit of DIVINE ACCEPTANCE.  Because of Christ, we may now boldly approach the throne of grace.  Because of Christ, we are fully pardoned and completely “ACCEPTED…IN…THE BELOVED.” (II Corinthians 5:17 – Hebrews 4:16 – Ephesians 1:6)  Indeed, because of our relational-connection with the Son, the Father “has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places…IN CHRIST JESUS.” (Ephesians 2:6)

It is absolutely astounding that the Son loves us in the same magnificent manner that  the Father loves the Son.  It bears repetition.  Our Elder Brother loves every one of his spiritual siblings in the same way that  the Father loves the Son.  In other words, every born-again believer has become THE BELOVED…OF THE “BELOVED SON!”  If that doesn’t make you stand up straight with renewed faith and awareness of how supremely special you are, then it is likely that nothing will.  Question: Do we truly know WHO we are and WHOSE we are?  Unquestionably, we are “heirs of God…and joint-heirs with Christ.”  To wit, we are THE BELOVED…OF “THE BELOVED.”  My friend, whether you are male or female, you may rise up and walk in your spiritual SON-SHIP.  Claim the heritage of spiritual authority that will win the world for the Kingdom.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

DON'T BE SURPRISED

DON’T BE SURPRISED

Difficult moments should never take believers by surprise.  Consider the sage advice of the Apostle Peter. “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." (I Peter 4:12-13)    

You will surely survive since you walk in covenant connectivity with Christ.  The all-wise Savior has invested so much in processing your lifelong growth and development; and, He will certainly see you through.  My life-verse is a reassuring reminder: “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)

So refuse to reside in fear, frustration, disappointment, doubt, stress or sorrow.  Never allow unexpected enemy incursions to blindside, derail, or destroy you.  Do not grant the adversary access to your mind or permission to deflate your dreams.  After all is said and done, you are GOD’S property and possession.  And unquestionably, He has your back.  

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

FEAR FREE

FEAR FREE

My wife, Belinda, has been on the gluten-free dietary kick. She makes heroic efforts to diminish our intake of this gluey substance which is the remaining residue when grain flours are washed to remove starch.  I do applaud her efforts and must admit that yesterday’s ziti was just as tasty, devoid (as much as possible) of ingredients containing gluten.  Belinda is an absolutely terrific cook and a loving wife.  Great matrimonial grace is reflected in every single thing that she does.

While I was pondering the recent ‘culinary lecture’ on the dangers of glutens – so thoroughly presented and articulated by my darling wife – my mind somehow wandered to another place. [Note To Wives: FYI, your husband might be occasionally guilty of drifting during particularly lengthy discourses! Smile!] Any-h-o-o-o, Belinda’s commentary made me think of some other ‘glutinous substances’ that potentially prevent us from embracing what I will term ‘healthy-life-diets.’

Unquestionably, FEAR tops the list of toxic emotional substances that we are prone to ingest and digest, often without consciously considering the negative ramifications of its resultant mindset and actions.

While I agree with my wife that it is very important to embrace a dietary regimen that is free from destructive elements of every stripe, I am convinced that it is of equal (perhaps greater) importance to rid ourselves of a daily intake of any satanic poison, such as fear.

Why? According to Dictionary.com, “FEAR” is “a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined…something that causes feelings of dread or apprehension.” Obviously, “GOD is not the author of confusion, but of peace.” (I Corinthians 14:33) We know, then, who is the real source of fear.  Right?

Bottom-line: “God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7) This fact neatly dovetails with the essence and character of our Creator since “GOD is LOVE.” (I John 4:8b) By abiding in Him, and He in us, we are able to escape the tormenting and troublesome snare of living in fear.  After all, writes John, the apostle of love, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love [GOD] casts out fear: because fear has torment. He who fears is not made perfect in love.” (I John 4:18)

Fear is the polar opposite of faith. “Without faith it is impossible to please Him [GOD]: for he who comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) In my view, fear is closely akin to a computer virus.  Think about it.  Fear directly impacts one’s ability to think clearly, to accurately process information and to act in ways that are appropriate and courageous.  To wit, fear is definitely a blessing-blocker.

The antidote to fear is simple and available.  We must train our minds to THINK, REJOICE, AND PRAY…FAITH-FULLY.  Carefully consider the Word of the Lord.

Philippians 4:8
For whatsover things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 

Isaiah 26:3
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

I Thessalonians 5:17-18
Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Luke 18:1
And He [Jesus] spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.

Living fear-free is the believer’s heritage, our God-given covenant promise and privilege.  To live any other way actually dishonors God – because anyone who exists shrouded in constant anxiety and fear is not fully trusting in God or His Word.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

JESUS STOPS BY

JESUS STOPS BY

Ruth looked at the envelope again.  There was no stamp or postmark, only her name and address.  She read the letter one more time...

Dear Ruth,

I will be in your neighborhood Saturday evening, and I’ll stop by for a visit.

Love Always,

Jesus

Her hands were shaking as she placed the letter on the table.  “Why would the Lord want to visit me?  I’m nobody special.  I don’t have anything at all to offer.”

With that thought, Ruth remembered her empty kitchen cabinets.  “Oh my goodness, I really don’t have anything to offer.  I’ll have to run to the store and buy something for dinner.”

She reached for her purse and counted its contents.  Seven dollars and forty cents was all she had.  ‘Well, at least I can get some bread and cold cuts,’ she thought, throwing on her coat and scurrying out the door.

When Ruth bought a loaf of French bread, a half-pound of sliced turkey and a carton of milk, she was left with a grand total of twelve cents to last her until Monday.  Nonetheless, she felt satisfied as she headed home, her meager offerings tucked carefully under her arm.

“Hey lady, can you help us?”  Ruth had been so absorbed in her dinner plans that she hadn’t noticed two figures huddled in the hallway.  It was a man and a woman, both dressed in little more than rags.

“Look lady, I ain’t got no job and me and my wife been living on the street.  It’s cold and we’re awfully hungry, and well, if you could help us lady, we’d really appreciate it.”

Ruth looked at them both.  They were dirty and unkempt but she felt they could find some kind of work if they really wanted to.  “Sir, I’d like to help you, but I’m a poor woman myself.  All I have is a few cold cuts and some bread.  I have an important guest for dinner tonight and I was planning on serving it to Him.”

“O.K. lady, I understand.  Thanks anyway.”  The man put his arm around the wife’s shoulders, turned and headed back into the alley.

As she watched them leave, Ruth felt a familiar twinge in her heart.  She cried, “Wait!”  The couple stopped and turned as she ran down the alley after them.  “Look, you can take this food.  I’ll figure out something else to serve my guest.”  She handed her grocery bag to the man.

“Thank you, lady!  Thank you very much!”  Shivering in the cold, the man’s wife chimed in, “Yes, thank you!”

“You know, I’ve got another coat at home.  Here, please take this one.”  Ruth unbuttoned her jacket and slipped it over the woman’s shoulders.  Smiling, she turned toward home – without her coat and with nothing at all to serve her special guest.  “Thank you, lady!  Thank you very much,” they called after her.

Ruth was chilled to the bone by the time she reached her front door, and really worried too.  The Lord was coming to visit and she didn’t have anything to offer Him.  She fumbled through her purse for the door key. As she did so, she noticed another envelope in her mailbox.  ‘That’s odd,’ she thought.  ‘The mailman doesn’t come twice in one day.’  She took the envelope inside and opened it.

Dear Ruth,

It was so good to see you again.  Thank you for the lovely meal and the warm coat.

Love Always,

Jesus

The winter night was bitter cold and Ruth had little to eat, but hardly noticed it.

Matthew 25:37-40

Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?

The King will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE MORNING SUN

THE MORNING SUN

A favorite worship chorus with lyrics that always stir my spirit:

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,

His mercies never come to an end;

They are new every morning, new every morning,

Great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord,

Great is Thy faithfulness.

This song conveys the hopeful message that every dawn brings on new possibilities (and absolute certainty) that the Creator manifests mercy, grace and generosity toward us in wonderfully unexpected ways.

Jeremiah originated the message and meaning of this worship chorus: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Solomon confirmed it with these words: “The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” (Proverbs 4:18)

I affirm it with a simple declaration of faith: No matter what today brings, Jehovah-Shammah IS THERE. The manifestation of His presence and power is just as sure at the appearance of the morning sun.  Indeed, JESUS CHRIST is the DAYSTAR, the morning sun. (II Peter 1:19) We will trust confidently in His providence.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

THE ULTIMATE TOUCHSTONE

THE ULTIMATE TOUCHSTONE

In life, all need to be grounded in something steadfast and sure.  In other words, all of us require objective tools of measurement by which we may evaluate our standing and gauge our progress.  It is an indisputable fact of the human condition that we must be responsible and accountable to something or someone other than ourselves.

Refined gold or silver was originally assessed by a black siliceous substance called a touchstone, which was rubbed vigorously against the precious metals.  The specific color of the streak produced on the metal by the touchstone reveals its purity and resultant value.  Hence, the touchstone streak became the standard of worth for gold and silver, a primary factor for setting a selling price in the marketplace.

Wouldn’t such a touchstone material or process be quite a rare and useful commodity if it were available (to us) in order to ascertain the quality and significance of the decisions and lifestyles that you and I embrace on a daily basis?

Good news!  All of us have within our grasp the ultimate touchstone.  Indeed, it is the Word of God.  I love how the Apostle Paul’s protégé, Timothy, so aptly describes it for us:

II Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Points to Ponder:  Have you ‘touched’ your touchstone lately?  Are you benefiting regularly by divine wisdom, or are you foolishly ignoring your greatest mentor, the all wise God?  Bottom-line: Has your life been objectively and accurately measured? 

Joshua 1:8

This book of the law [the Word of God] shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success. 

My friend, if you are currently experiencing problems, pressure, pain, illness, addiction, discouragement, lack, loss, grief, or if you just have to make some challenging decisions, take the ULTIMATE TOUCHSTONE in hand and ask GOD to guide you in the reading and revelatory process.  Surely He will!

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

IT'S TIME TO SPEAK OUT!

IT'S TIME TO SPEAK OUT!

One fundamental fact of U.S. history: ALL ARE IMMIGRANTS WHO ARE NOT OF NATIVE-AMERICAN DESCENT. Unfortunately, our collective callousness and historical amnesia disallow our acceptance of this indisputable truth. While I regret that some will find my viewpoint to be offensive, allow me to be crystal-clear. As a nation, we have neither lived up to the 'promises' of our Declaration of Independence, nor have we fulfilled the 'proscriptions' of our Constitution. Notwithstanding our current dysfunctional dilemma and discourse...ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL. Indeed, it is a divine endowment – not a human construct.

The irony and irrationality of our public communications are that many of THE MAJORITY POPULATION (not all) feel absolutely entitled to voice personal perspectives and even strident commentary about our society and nation, as was so vociferously done by Mr. Trump during his presidential campaign. But whenever THE MINORITY POPULATION dares to exercise these same First Amendment rights, they are frequently deemed to be unreasonable or un-American.

The contemptuous phrase, “AMERICA: LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT” is patently divisive, mean-spirited, (and in its present trope), OBVIOUSLY RACIST in inception and intent. The plain truth is that America’s immigrant groups have always undergirded the foundation and fabric of our nation, both socio-economically and historically.

Yet, far too many of us are expected to respond with ‘benign silence’ while Mr. Trump serves up daily dishes of toxic lies, racist rhetoric and xenophobic hysteria via Twitter and ‘The Bully Pulpit.’  Indeed, “BULLY” is a highly appropriate and accurate descriptor for him because our current president is (1) a serial liar and pompous antagonizer of our citizenry, (2) a misogynistic disrespecter of women, and (3) a cowardly deceiver who purposefully evaded military service to our nation, that so many have freely embraced, myself included.

Think about it. Our so-called Commander-In-Chief has publicly attacked Gold Star families; he has shamelessly denigrated American heroes, e.g. Senator John McCain (even while lying in his grave); he has systematically eroded the credibility of our sacrosanct institutions of jurisprudence and national security; he has declared those who enter our nation from the south to be “rapists” and “criminals;” he has stated that a tenured federal judge who is Mexican-American could not be trusted to be rational and fair; he has demanded the death penalty for ‘The Central Park Five’ and yet refuses to acknowledge their proven innocence; he has endorsed the vitriolic attitudes and actions of white supremacists; he has denied equal housing opportunity to deserving minorities via the red-lining of applications and approval processes; he has obstructed justice during recent federal criminal investigations [Read The Mueller Report]; he has paid out substantial sums of hush money to cloak extramarital affairs; he has colluded with the leadership of our primary geopolitical adversary, Russia; he has audaciously violated ‘The Emoluments Clause’ [Article I, Section 9, Paragraph 8 of the U.S. Constitution] which prohibits federal officeholders from receiving any gift, payment, or thing of value from a foreign state or its representatives; and tragically, he has become the international poster-child of immoral, despicable, licentious and abominable behavior.

Mr. Trump is an absolute disgrace to our nation and to our body politic.  To wit, no number of conservative federal judge appointments, no lowering of taxes for the wealthy, and no fiscal allowances empowering excessive corporate profiteering (a.k.a. corporate welfare) will somehow exonerate his character or salvage his nefarious presidency. Instead of “draining the swamp” (as pledged), he has recruited and appointed more unscrupulous cabinet members than any previous president. History will surely record that “45” is by far ‘the worst’ to have occupied The White House.

Moreover, Mr. Trump is dangerously ill-informed about national and global history. And unfortunately, he has shown little interest in educating himself to assume the daunting role of the American presidency. Additionally, he reflects little respect for his presidential predecessors, especially Mr. Obama. He was a primary source of the blatant lie that our first African-American president was not born in the USA, and he strives (deliberately and daily) to obliterate every one of Mr. Obama’s accomplishments.

“45” has outlandishly shamed our nation on the world stage, with his unprecedented pandering to murderous tyrants and dictators, while simultaneously degrading nations and leaders that have been long-standing friends of America. He has also nullified important treaties that potentially protect us from environmental catastrophe and nuclear holocaust.  Unquestionably, he is a loose-cannon, an egotistical narcissist and a profoundly dangerous individual, one who will ultimately deprive our nation and world of its peace, prosperity, safety and security.

In conclusion, I do pray daily for Mr. Trump because that is what God requires, and because his actions have impact on all. However, my days of remaining silent in the face of his impudent attitude and impotent leadership are NOW OVER. Should any of you choose to disassociate with me because of my personal conviction that it is mission-critical to shine the glaring light of truth on this ungodly leader, then so be it. I will understand; and, I will offer no response to your commentary. However, I do reserve the right to delete any statements that are factually inaccurate or fundamentally disrespectful.

WATCH YOUR MOUTH!

WATCH YOUR MOUTH!

I am aware that today’s devotional topic might sound a bit brash, perhaps even crude.  Nevertheless, so many of us fail to recognize the immense power and impact of spoken words.  The prolific author, Og Mandino, poses a pivotal question: “Why is it that so many of us go out of our own way to offend others with criticism and offensive judgments that so often come back to haunt us?  Why do we allow our big mouths to dig ruts in our path so deep that our forward progress is finally nil?” 

One of my favorite books, read early in life, is “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. “Criticism is futile,” Carnegie contends, “because it puts a man on the defensive, and usually makes him strive to justify himself.  Criticism is dangerous, because it wounds a man’s precious pride, hurts his sense of importance, and arouses resentment.”  He adds an astute observation: “When dealing with people, let us remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic.  We are dealing with creatures of emotion, creatures bristling with prejudices and motivated by pride and vanity.  Criticism is a spark – a spark that is liable to cause an explosion in the powder magazine of pride.”  Hmm…something to seriously consider!

The ancient Greek scholar, Pythagoras, wrote “A wound from a tongue is worse than a wound from a sword, for the latter affects only the body, the former affects the spirit.”  More succinctly, one could simply say, “Watch your mouth!” 

James, the brother of Jesus, had a special assignment to highlight the impact of believers’ speech.  His teachings on the subject are of vital importance; so they are reprinted (in part) below.

James 3:5-10

Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.  See how great a forest a little fire kindles!  And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.  For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.  But no man can tame the tongue.  It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.  With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.  My brethren, these things ought not to be so. 

James’ doctrine-of-speech may be summarized as follows: “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” (James 1:26) 

Words have significant spiritual capability.  They can give or take life, to and from yourself, but also to and from others.  This makes logical sense in light of the nature of The One who “created all things.” (Ephesians 3:9 – Colossians 1:16 – Revelation 4:11)  The very essence of Christ, the way we may most accurately describe His power, dominion and authority is simply this: JESUS CHRIST IS THE LIVING WORD.  Therefore, it stands to reason that OUR WORDS are of special significance and import to THE LIVING WORD, The Holy One who “upholds all things by the word of His power.” (Hebrews 1:3)  Think carefully and prayerfully about that. 

My friend, we must always employ wisdom in every avenue of communication.  Why is this important?  Because our words are “SALT.”  As such, they have sufficient capacity to SEASON [INFLUENCE] our families, our friends, even our enemies, certainly ourselves.  To wit, scriptures mandate that our “speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that [we] may know how [we] ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:6) 

At the risk of sounding somewhat rude, I must repeat: “WATCH YOUR MOUTH!”  Let us activate the governing thermostat of God’s Spirit, who constantly modifies our attitudes, actions and speech.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!

SHARING CARING

SHARING CARING

If you are a bit downhearted today because of your life situation or experiences, it is vitally important to look outside of yourself.  In truth, compared to so many others, you are bountifully blessed.  So instead of being self-absorbed and feeling depressed, why not sow a moment of joy into some soul who really needs it, perhaps much more than you.  Bill Renda revealed an inspirational personal experience that I would like to share with you.  He entitled it, “Show Someone You Care.”

I was having lunch in a local restaurant, consumed with thoughts about how tough life seemed lately, and how sick and tired I was of the daily grind.  I own a landscape company, but never felt I had made a difference in people’s lives.

As I sat there feeling sorry for myself, a young woman (about 25 years old) walked in and sat down in a booth, apparently waiting for a friend.  It didn’t take long before I noticed her trying to hide from the gaze of other people, and my heart sank.  I could tell her hair was falling out and, at such a young age, she must have been receiving chemotherapy.

I watched secretly as she tried her best to remain composed, but she was having a tough time of it.  My heart ached for her, imagining how she might feel right at this moment going through that terrible experience, and yet I was intimately familiar with her pain.

You see, I buried my wife, the love of my life, just a few short years ago and had to watch helplessly as she slowly faded away.  So I desperately needed to get a message of hope to this struggling young lady.  But how?  What could I do? 

Then it hit me!  I called over her waitress and explained that I wanted to buy lunch for this young lady and her friend, but also insisted that it remain anonymous.  I handed the waitress a note to give to the girl when she would inform her that her tab was already paid.

My note read as follows: “Someone today thinks you are beautiful.  Someone today thinks your smile glows with excitement.  Someone today thinks your eyes light up the world.  Someone today cares and just wants you to know that you are special.  Enjoy the rest of your day, pretty young lady.” 

When the young woman asked for her check, I watched as she was told it had been paid for.  She asked why? Who?  What for?  The waitress simply handed her my note and informed her that the gentleman who paid wanted it to be an anonymous gift.

I watched as she slowly read the note.  Gradually, her eyes grew teary, and then I witnessed a marvelous transformation.  Her face glowed with a beautiful and hopeful smile!  It literally seemed to brighten the room.  She sat up straight, not caring who noticed her sick condition or missing hair.  Her friend also beamed, not for what had been done, but simply because her friend was feeling alive and beautiful again.

What is the measure of your life?  I can tell you definitively that it’s not about how you look, nor what you possess, neither how much money you can earn.  At the end of the day, none of these are very important.  Life is all about how much we care and what we do for others. 

So make a tangible difference today…in just one life.  It will totally transform that person’s perspective and, at the same time, it will fill your day with peace and joy.

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!

LET'S BUILD A BRIDGE

LET’S BUILD A BRIDGE

How we have truly loved spending quality time with our grandchildren!  Their frequent visits have always been a sheer delight to Belinda and me.  Six years ago, after our Tea Party time, six-year-old Sydney asked me to draw a picture with her.  I agreed, but ended up doing much more observing than drawing.  Our conversation went something like this:

Me:         Sydney, what do you want to draw?

Sydney:  Islands!

Me:         Why?

Sydney:  I got a book from the library.  Lots and lots of pictures of islands!

[Seated at Grandma’s office desk, Sydney went to work, diligently creating her picture.  I was rather impressed and proud of her results].

Me:         That’s a gorgeous picture, Sydney!  Great job!

[She paused for a moment, inspecting her picture with a bright smile; her response surprised me].

Sydney:  But people can’t get off.  They’re stuck!

Me:         I see.  What can we do about that?  Hmm….maybe we can draw a boat next to your island.

Sydney:  No Pop-Pop…a bridge.  A bridge is better!

Me:         Why is that, Sydney?

Sydney:  We can get on and off when we want.  Let’s build a bridge!

Given Sydney’s tender age and the fact that she was a first grader, my granddaughter’s insight both floored and fascinated me.  Indeed, a bridge would be a far better solution for the people on her imaginary island.  Should a ferry serve as their only means of egress, they would always be limited to arbitrary timetables and external conditions.  On the other hand, a bridge would allow them total autonomy, the ability to come and go at will.  In Sydney’s simple words, “A bridge is better!”

Our playtime revealed an intriguing metaphor for life.  Symbolically speaking, many people prefer ‘constructing ferries’ for their personal relationships.  Why?  Relationship ferries grant us total control over the ‘how’ and ‘when’ of our interactions with others.  Bottom-line: Far too many have the unfortunate tendency to become ‘control freaks’ in the lives of others, demanding that everyone dance to ‘their tune’ – in a melody, cadence and orchestration of their choice.  But ferries never work well in relationships; bridges are infinitely better. 

Jesus Christ said, “Blessed are the peace makers [the bridge builders], for they shall be called the children of God. (Matthew 5:9)  So, try hard to avoid becoming an island; to the very best of your ability, stay connected.  However, if you should find yourself in such an isolated circumstance (due to your own actions or the decisions of others), then simply build a bridge.  “A BRIDGE IS BETTER!”

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!